Minn. lawmakers prep for flood relief session

A panel of lawmakers plan to meet Tuesday to discuss how to respond to the severe flooding in Duluth and other communities.

By Associated Press

Crookston Times - Crookston, MN

By Associated Press

Posted Aug. 8, 2012 at 12:01 AM
Updated Aug 8, 2012 at 7:02 AM

By Associated Press

Posted Aug. 8, 2012 at 12:01 AM
Updated Aug 8, 2012 at 7:02 AM

ST. PAUL, Minn.

Lawmakers are preparing for a special session focused on the state's response to severe flooding in Duluth and other communities.

A panel meets Tuesday to discuss the needs of the flooded communities ahead of a special session tentatively set for Aug. 24. Gov. Mark Dayton has yet to call the special session.

Floods hit northeastern Minnesota and several counties to west and south of the Twin Cities, prompting a federal disaster declaration that brings dollars to help repair more than $108 million in damaged roads and other public infrastructure.

But the Federal Emergency Management Agency denied Dayton's request for direct aid to homeowners and business owners whose losses weren't covered by insurance.

Legislative Auditor James Nobles will speak on his report examining the state's response to recent disasters.